Autism walk bringing activities to Truro on Saturday

Jessica MacIssac, summer student with the Truro chapter of Autism Nova Scotia, left, and Leah Poirier, coordinator for the chapter, are ready for the Truro autism walk. The event is being held Saturday, June 22 in Victoria Park. - Lynn Curwin

TRURO, N.S. —

Jessica MacIsaac will be doing a lot more than walking at the autism walk. As the summer student with the Truro chapter of Autism Nova Scotia she’ll be helping with a lot of things.

“This is my first time participating in the walk so it’s pretty exciting,” she said. “It’s going to be a fun event.”

Registration and activities begin at 10 a.m. in Victoria Park. There will be a bouncy house, petting farm, face painting and exhibitors. Walkers head out at 11 a.m., with the route going along Young, Arthur, Pleasant and Prince Streets, with a stop at the Civic Square before returning to the park – where there will be a barbecue.

“It’s a chance for people to come together and enjoy the day, knowing they’re welcomed and if someone has a meltdown it’s not a big deal,” said Leah Poirier, coordinator for the chapter.

“It’s a way for us to raise funds that enable us to provide more supports and it’s a way to promote inclusion and foster understanding and acceptance.”

All money raised at the Truro walk stays in the area.

MacIsaac, who studied psychology at Acadia, is looking into organizing social groups for autism, which will launch in the autumn.

“This is something I have a passion for, so working here is a great opportunity and learning experience,” she said. “I’m glad I started here soon enough to be part of the walk.”